Summary:
Many campuses utilize the services of volunteers for various activities, from coaching to providing campus tours and working at a variety of campus events. Volunteers perform supplemental tasks and are not to be used to eliminate the need for, or take the place of, paid staff.
System Guidelines & Other Policies and Procedures:
MnSCU Board Procedure #4.0.1, Use of Volunteers Procedure https://www.minnstate.edu/board/procedure/400p1.html
MnSCU Board Procedure #5.19.3 (Travel Management)
https://www.minnstate.edu/board/policy/519.html
Certain volunteers may be subject to background checks under Personnel Guidelines:
Kari Koskinen Manager Background Check Act, #FSR0002 (password protected)
Psychotherapist Checks under M.S. Chapter 148A, #FSR0003 (password protected)
College and Universities may have developed additional campus policies and procedures with regard to the use of volunteers.
Contracts and Plans:
none
Forms:
Volunteer Coaching Release of Liability Form
https://www.minnstate.edu/board/procedure/4-00p1-attach.pdf
Laws:
Minnesota Statutes, section 3.736 outlines liability and indemnification for volunteers who act in good faith and within the scope of the volunteer assignment.
Department of Labor:
For employees who may volunteer for other assignments on campus, the Department of Labor (DOL) provides an online field guide that may be of use in determining whether an employer-employee relationship exists (and may thus be subject to payment of overtime), or if the volunteer assignment is not subject to such provisions:
System Office Contact:
Sue Appelquist
651/201-1459
